Rodrygo came to the rescue for Real Madrid on Sunday, netting a crucial 76th-minute winner to secure a 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alaves and alleviate the mounting pressure on manager Xabi Alonso. The result at the Mendizorrotza keeps Los Blancos second in La Liga on 39 points, ensuring the gap to league leaders Barcelona remains at four points.
It was a vital response for Madrid following consecutive defeats to Celta Vigo and Manchester City, offering a lifeline to Alonso amid widespread reports that a loss in the Basque Country could have cost him his job.
Kylian Mbappe, returning to the starting lineup despite lingering knee discomfort, broke the deadlock in the 24th minute with a trademark finish into the top corner following a long pass from Jude Bellingham. However, Madrid struggled to assert dominance against a spirited Alaves side, who eventually leveled matters in the 68th minute.
Substitute Carlos Vicente capitalized on a chipped pass from Antonio Blanco to beat Thibaut Courtois, a goal eventually awarded after a VAR review overturned an initial offside call, leaving Madrid momentarily staring at a potential crisis.
The visitors restored their lead eight minutes later when Vinicius Jr. drove into the penalty area from the left flank to set up Rodrygo for a steered finish from close range. It was the Brazilian’s second goal in as many games, though his evening ended on a sour note as he was forced off with an injury moments later.
The victory was achieved with a depleted defensive line ravaged by suspensions and injuries to key players like Ferland Mendy and David Alaba, forcing Alonso to hand a senior debut to 19-year-old academy defender Victor Valdepenas at left-back.
While the performance remained unconvincing at times; with Alaves winning the possession battle and testing the Madrid backline, the three points provide essential breathing room for Alonso.
The manager celebrated Rodrygo’s goal emphatically, acknowledging the tension of the situation. "I experienced those minutes the same way I experienced the seven minutes that followed them," Alonso said regarding the nervy period between the equalizer and the winner. He also felt his side should have been awarded a late penalty, stating, "It seemed a clear penalty to me. I'm very surprised the referee didn't go to the VAR."
Speaking after the match, Alonso emphasized the importance of squad unity as they navigate a difficult stretch of the season. "We're all together, we're fighting together in the good moments and not so good moments," Alonso told reporters. "The team fought well. The start was very good, and we were able to go ahead again at the end. Unity is fundamental."
With the immediate threat to his position averted, Madrid now turns their attention to Wednesday's Copa del Rey fixture against Talavera, though concerns regarding their overall consistency remain.
